Student notes differences between Pakistani, CF school systems

Junior Alma Shahbaz started her academic journey from the Division Public School in Pakistan, and she has experienced sharp differences in the education system of the two countries.

Shahbaz was born in America, ventured to Pakistan to deepen her understanding of her religion and culture, and then she returned to America around four years ago. Her unique perspective allowed her to explore the education and cultural differences between these two nations.

Shahbaz said she has aspirations of attending college in America; however, she hasn’t yet decided on her field of study. 

In Pakistan, her educational path to college was very different. She said the most significant difference was “the strictness of Pakistani schools compared to American ones. Pakistani schools demand an incredible amount of homework and self teaching,’ she said. “In America the teachers are more involved, and  there is a lot more hands-on learning.”

Noting the disciplinary differences of her previous school, Shahbaz said, “In Pakistani schools, if a student misbehaves, they may be made to stand in front of the entire class for the duration of the lesson. For the male students, there’s the ‘chicken position,’ in which they sit down with their hands behind their legs holding their ears. It is quite different from the way things are done here.” 

Regarding what she hopes to do with her college degree, Shahbaz’s perspective took on a cultural aspect. “I don’t plan to get a job with my degree, whatever that may be,” she said. “In my culture, I mean, typically women only work if it’s necessary or needed. I don’t really want to work; I just want to get a degree to show that I’ve done something in my life.”

Shahbaz favors the American school system for her plans. “I like  the school system here much better. It is so much easier compared to Pakistan.” She said her words reflected her journey from Pakistan to America, driven by her family’s belief in the opportunities and better Higher education in the United States.